1. Could you explain the role of Vodafone Cook Islands in connecting the country and ensuring reliable communications across a geographically dispersed island nation?
Vodafone Cook Islands is the premier telecommunications provider in the country. While we operate in a competitive market, it is very small, so we function as a full-service provider, offering fixed-line, mobile, broadband, IPTV, and even postal services under a government license. We serve a vast area of 2.2 million square kilometres of ocean.
Since the mid-1990s, we’ve connected the entire country primarily through satellite, and more recently through submarine cable linking the main islands. Today, every populated island has access to 4G mobile, broadband, and national TV and radio. This level of connectivity allows citizens to participate fully in the digital economy, even if transport infrastructure is still catching up.
2. That level of connectivity is quite rare for island economies. How was it achieved?
It stems from a unique government decision in the early 1990s to grant an exclusive license to Telecom Cook Islands, with a mandate to connect all islands under universal service obligations. This approach, rather than relying on competition, proved highly effective in such a small and remote market. While competition was introduced in 2020, it hasn’t significantly changed service levels, particularly in outer islands. The original model delivered on its objectives.
3. What key investments are currently being made to modernize connectivity?
We’re rolling out fibre-to-the-home infrastructure based on models from Australia and New Zealand, focusing on key economic islands. We’ve also launched 5G services and built three data centres to support hosting and disaster recovery. While these aren’t hyperscale facilities, they are designed to meet national needs and ensure resilience.
4. How are you addressing digital inclusion across remote communities?
For us, digital inclusion means providing affordable access and letting people decide how to use it. We don’t believe in forcing adoption of specific technologies. Interestingly, the Cook Islands is a well-banked nation, so some digital solutions like mobile payments haven’t gained traction as quickly as elsewhere. Sometimes moving too fast technologically can create its own challenges, but ultimately it’s about adapting as needs evolve.
5. Tourism is central to the economy. How does Vodafone Cook Islands support the visitor experience?
Tourism drives much of our investment. Despite a population of just 15,000, we host around 200,000 tourists annually, so our infrastructure is built for that scale. We connect hotels with fibre, offer “hospitality-as-a-service” solutions, and provide travel SIMs and eSIMs that visitors can activate before arrival. Our goal is to make connectivity seamless so visitors can focus on enjoying their stay.
6. How important is international connectivity for trade and tourism?
It’s critical. Even before submarine cables, we ensured high-quality satellite connectivity. Today, with both satellite and cable systems, we offer bandwidth levels comparable to Australia and New Zealand. Visitors can expect a similar digital experience, which is essential for both tourism and business.
7. What opportunities do you see for partnerships with global technology companies, particularly from the U.S.?
We’re very selective. As one of the smallest telcos in the world, we need partners who can scale solutions to our size and commit long-term, 15 to 20 years. While there’s exciting innovation coming out of the U.S., especially from startups, we prioritize reliability and longevity in our partnerships.
8. What measures are in place to ensure cybersecurity and resilience?
We follow industry best practices and collaborate with regional and global telecom organizations to stay informed about threats. Our infrastructure, including data centres and submarine cables, is secured, and we remain vigilant. Being a small nation can sometimes reduce our exposure, but we take cybersecurity very seriously.
9. How are you supporting digital transformation for businesses and government?
Connectivity is the foundation. We’re now exploring how AI can enhance productivity, particularly given workforce capacity constraints. We see AI as a workforce multiplier, not a threat. By adopting the right use cases, especially those suited to tourism-driven economies, we believe AI can accelerate development.
10. What is your vision for the digital future of the Cook Islands?
Connectivity comes first, without it, there’s no AI or digital innovation. Our goal is to ensure high-speed, low-latency connectivity across all islands through a mix of fibre and satellite. Once that foundation is in place, innovation can flourish. Ultimately, it’s about building a more efficient economy that benefits everyone.
11. Finally, what message would you like to share with Los Angeles Times readers?
If you’re visiting the Cook Islands, make sure your phone is unlocked so you can use local connectivity. We aim to provide a seamless experience, one that matches or even exceeds what you’re used to at home. Most importantly, we want you to enjoy your time here while staying effortlessly connected.
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